Health reform calendar

Oct. 1
People without health insurance can shop for a policy through an independent broker, do it online at marketplace.cms.gov or seek the assistance of a counselor or a navigator. Counselors are experts affiliated with health-care providers, while navigators are federally trained workers assigned to do community outreach.

March 31, 2014
Deadline to buy coverage on the federal exchange for 2014.

2015
People who can afford health insurance but didn't buy it must begin paying penalties when they file their taxes for the 2014 income year.

Healthcare Winners

People with pre-existing conditions, who canít be denied coverage.

Individuals making between $11,490 and $45,960, who qualify for subsidies to buy insurance.

Four tiers of coverage

People who don't qualify for subsidies - generally those earning more than $45,960 for an individual or $78,120 for a family of three - can choose among four tiers of coverage. Specific rates will vary within government-approved rules. In addition to the premium, people may have to pay out-of-pocket costs of as much as $6,350 for an individual or $12,700 for a family.

Tier Medical costs paid by policy

Bronze

60%

Silver

70%

Gold

80%

Platinum

90%

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Penalties for not buying insurance

2014$95 per adult and $47.50 per child (up to $285 for a family) or 1 percent of family income, whichever is greater.

2015$325 per adult and $162.50 per child (up to $975 for a family) or 2 percent of family income, whichever is greater.

2016$695 per adult and $347.50 per child (up to $2,085 for a family) or 2.5 percent of family income, whichever is greater.